Where the cabin air filter sits and what it does

The cabin air filter in a 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee is located behind the glove box on the passenger side. It traps dust, pollen, and debris before air enters the cabin through your heating and air conditioning system. A clogged filter reduces airflow, makes your climate control work harder, and can leave musty odors inside the vehicle.

Most owners notice the problem when the air from the vents feels weak or when the cabin smells stale even with fresh air mode on. Replacing it is a straightforward job that takes 10 to 15 minutes and costs between $15 and $40 for the filter itself if you do it yourself, or $50 to $100 if a shop handles it.

Key Takeaways

  • The cabin air filter is behind the glove box on the passenger side and should be checked every 12,000 to 15,000 miles.
  • You will need a replacement filter (part number varies by trim level), a screwdriver, and about 15 minutes to complete the job yourself.
  • The filter slides out after you remove the glove box and unclip the filter housing cover.
  • Jeep recommends replacing the cabin air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, or sooner if you drive in dusty conditions.

What you need before you start

Gather a replacement cabin air filter, a Phillips head screwdriver, and a flashlight. The correct part number depends on your Grand Cherokee's trim level and options. The most common part numbers are 68254435AA (standard filter) and 68254435AB (activated carbon filter, which also reduces odors). Check your owner's manual or call a Jeep dealer with your VIN to confirm which one your vehicle uses.

You do not need any special tools. A flashlight helps you see inside the glove box cavity, but it is not essential. Some owners find it useful to have a small vacuum nearby to catch dust that falls when you remove the old filter.

Removing the glove box to access the filter

Open the glove box fully and look at the sides. You will see two clips or tabs on the inside edges where the glove box hinges attach. Push or pull these tabs inward (the exact motion depends on your specific model year, so check your manual if you are unsure). The glove box will drop down and hang from the hinge at the top.

Some 2015 models also have a small screw or bolt at the bottom center of the glove box opening. If yours has one, remove it with your screwdriver before attempting to drop the box. Once the glove box is out of the way, you will see the filter housing directly behind where it was sitting.

Sliding out the old filter and installing the new one

The filter housing is a plastic box with a cover held on by two or three clips. Press or unclip these tabs to open the cover. The old filter will slide straight out toward you. Note the direction the filter is facing—there is usually an arrow printed on the frame showing airflow direction. The new filter must go in the same way.

Slide the new filter in until it seats fully in the housing. Make sure all four corners are seated evenly and the filter is not bent or twisted. Close the housing cover and press the clips until they snap into place. There should be no gaps between the cover and the housing.

Reinstalling the glove box

Lift the glove box back up and align the hinge tabs on both sides with the slots in the dashboard. Push the tabs outward or upward until they click into place—you will hear or feel a distinct snap when they lock. If your model had a screw at the bottom, reinstall it now and tighten it snugly but not forcefully.

Close the glove box and open it again to confirm it operates smoothly and closes fully. If it feels loose or does not close all the way, the hinge tabs may not be seated correctly. Pop it open again and reseat them.

When to replace the cabin air filter

Jeep recommends replacing the cabin air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles under normal driving conditions. If you drive frequently on dusty roads, unpaved surfaces, or in areas with high pollen counts, replace it every 6,000 to 10,000 miles instead. Check the filter visually every oil change—if it looks dark or clogged, replace it sooner rather than waiting for the next scheduled interval.

Some 2015 Grand Cherokees have a cabin air filter warning light on the dashboard, though not all trim levels include this feature. If yours has one and it illuminates, the filter is due for replacement. Even without a warning light, weak airflow from the vents is a reliable sign that the filter needs changing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with a dirty cabin air filter?

Yes, but you should not for long. A clogged filter reduces airflow, forces your climate control system to work harder, and can allow dust and pollen into the cabin. This is especially problematic if anyone in your vehicle has allergies or respiratory sensitivities. Replace it as soon as you notice weak airflow.

What is the difference between a standard and activated carbon filter?

An activated carbon filter removes odors and some chemical pollutants in addition to trapping dust and pollen. A standard filter traps particles only. The activated carbon version costs a few dollars more but lasts the same length of time. Choose based on whether odors are a problem in your vehicle.

Do I need to reset anything after replacing the filter?

No. If your Grand Cherokee has a cabin air filter warning light, it may reset automatically after you drive for a certain distance, or you may need to hold the reset button on the dashboard for a few seconds. Check your owner's manual for the specific procedure for your model year.

What if the filter housing cover will not open?

The clips can be stiff on older vehicles. explore gentle, steady pressure rather than forcing them. If one clip is stuck, try opening the other one first, then work the stuck clip free. If a clip breaks, you can still hold the cover in place with a piece of tape until you replace it, though you should order a new cover from a Jeep dealer.